The cameras were discovered by a customer inside two restrooms at Northside Social in Falls Church.
FALLS CHURCH, Va. — Police have opened an investigation after discovering hidden cameras inside public bathrooms in a Virginia restaurant. Cameras were found inside two public restrooms at Northside Social on Park Avenue in Falls Church.
On Saturday, May 11, a customer noticed a pen-like device hidden under the sink that was facing the toilet inside one of the restaurant’s first-floor restrooms. That customer turned the device over to an employee. Police were made aware of the devices the following Monday, May 13. Officers responded to the restaurant at that time to investigate and recover the devices.
Detectives say the hidden devices included cameras, both of which had recordings of people using the restroom on them. Police say the footage was recorded on Saturday, May 11 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Anyone who may be a victim and was illegally recorded is asked to contact the City of Falls Church Police at investigations@fallschurchva.gov.
As the investigation into the hidden cameras continues, police urge business owners and their customers to be alert and on the lookout for similar devices.
Here are the tips they give:
- Pay attention to unusual objects that seem out of place, like smoke detectors with tiny pinholes, fake air fresheners, or decoy objects with unusual shapes that could conceal a camera.
- Check common hiding spots like power outlets, tissue boxes, or underneath tables and sinks.
- In low-light conditions, look for small red or green LEDs that might indicate a camera operating in night vision mode.
- Use your phone’s flashlight function to scan for reflections from concealed camera lenses sometimes hidden in outlets, clocks, and smoke detectors.
If you suspect a hidden camera in a public space, prioritize your safety and privacy first by discreetly leaving the area and then report your concerns to the City of Falls Church Police Department by calling the police non-emergency number at 703-241-5053.
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